Get Involved--Volunteer!

From its start in 1903, the National Wildlife Refuge System has owed its very existence to concerned citizens eager to protect America's natural resources. Over 100 people volunteer their time to the Sacramento National Wildlife Refuge Complex every year. Whether they work on the land, assist visitors in the visitor center, or with youth, they contribute to the conservation mission that reaches back more than a century. Become a volunteer to contribute your strength on behalf of America’s natural resources.

The Sacramento NWR Complex welcomes volunteers in a variety of areas and on all refuges. Volunteers must be at least 16 years old (with parental permission). See below for the volunteer application. All volunteers will be interviewed and screened to find the right fit for refuge and the volunteer. Field work opportunities for small groups/organizations wanting to volunteer should contact the volunteer coordinator at least 6 weeks in advance.

What We Do

Did you know?

Often small groups of northern shovelers bring food to the surface by swimming rapidly in a circle while swinging their bills side to side. They strain aquatic vegetation, plankton, and tiny invertebrates through the comblike edges of their shovel-shaped bill.